Sirius Buying Group, the UK’s leading buying group in the electrical appliance and kitchen retail sector marks the end of an era but the beginning of a whole new journey as Co-Founder & Director, Peter Gilks, plans his retirement ahead of the company’s annual UK trade show this October 2023.
A pioneer for members and suppliers within the electrical appliance industry and a highly regarded changemaker for the group, Peter Gilks established award-winning NE Appliances back in 1983, and has always been on the ground floor when it comes to product, service and distribution. Playing a key role in the co-creation of Sirius over the last 22 years has seen Peter take on the role of Director in 2005, and carve a niche for himself to further business operations within the group.
Steve Jones, Managing Director at Sirius Buying Group, says, “We are all hugely inspired by Peter’s passion for the industry and his determination to keep it moving forwards with confidence and a clear vision to ensure the retailer remains independent in the marketplace. His determination to keep pushing the boundaries of what our members can achieve has empowered 100s of brands and businesses up and down the country to ultimately ‘stay in business’ and like us, are grateful for the time and expertise he has provided over the years.
Peter’s unique understanding of business comes from his grassroots leadership style as NE Appliances (formerly Nailsea Electrics) has evolved into a second-generation family-owned business and is now successfully managed by his son, Ben Gilks. His ability to blend the traditional values of the high street with forward-thinking retail is a massive part of the Sirius community and we invite all our Members to bid him a final farewell at his very last trade show in Milton Keynes this October. In fact, I think it’s never been more true to say ‘You can take the man out of the showroom, but you can’t take the showroom out of the man’ – Thank you for everything Peter, you will be missed!”
Peter Gilks says, “For me, I feel it is time to stand aside and let the next generation of trailblazers take the lead to continue to ensure the independent electrical retailer remains a fundamental asset to the UK homeowner and property developer. Every generation faces new challenges as customer expectations and lifestyles change, and the past two decades have certainly been testament to the increased level of sophistication in the marketplace. It has been a huge privilege to help create such a supportive, loyal, and open-minded environment where Sirius Members and Suppliers can grow their businesses together, remain agile and respond to the changing needs of the marketplace. Every member within the group is highly valued no matter where they are on their growth journey, and I have no doubt that with all the ongoing development plans, even more new and existing businesses will benefit from using Sirius as it continues to expand nationwide. I am really looking forward to this year’s trade show and although it will be my last, I will have the opportunity to give thanks and properly say goodbye to so many of my dear friends and colleagues. It may be the end but for me, it’s only the beginning!”
Gordon Jones, Chairman at Sirius Buying Group adds, “Pete has played a key role in the growth and development of Sirius right from its early stages. His insight as an electrical retailer at the ‘sharp end’ of the business has been invaluable in developing the Group to where it is today. Can I say a personal thankyou Pete for our close working relationship and friendship, along with your indefatigable sense of humour we have shared over the last 22 years. You’ll be greatly missed!”
Peter will be succeeded by Phil Cox, whose love of retail with 35-years of experience working in the electrical appliance industry and Managing Director of Empire Kitchens & Appliances, will see him take on a non-executive director role within the group. Phil says, “To see the creation and growth of Sirius under Pete’s guidance over the years has been truly amazing. In his retirement he is taking with him a wealth of experience and knowledge and I am grateful and thrilled to be able to step in and support the incredible team that we now have. Working on behalf of our members, I will be assisting the team to both fill the gap left by Pete and help develop the group further with some of the exciting plans we have for the future. Congratulations on all you have achieved Pete, it’s truly remarkable. The group has never been stronger despite a challenging environment. You will be sorely missed, but are leaving the ship in capable hands.”
If you’re ready to boost your bottom line while retaining your independence, please contact Sirius Buying Group to find out how it can help you grow commercially: t 0330 133 8336, e siriusoffice@siriusbuyinggroup.co.uk, w www.siriusbuyinggroupltd.co.uk 📍 Office 10, Equinox South Business Centre, Bristol BS32 4QL
